instead

adverb

in·​stead in-ˈsted 

1

: as a substitute or equivalent

was going to write but called instead

2

: as an alternative to something expressed or implied : rather

longed instead for a quiet country life

Synonyms of instead

• rather

Examples of instead in a Sentence

I was offered a ride, but I chose to walk instead.

Recent Examples on the Web

The ship will stay in orbit to carry out experiments instead, the agency said. —Jessie Yeung, CNN Money, 14 Nov. 2025

However, those diners haven't been visiting the burrito chain's restaurants as frequently, instead opting to cook at home, according to CEO Scott Boatwright. —Amelia Lucas,melissa Repko,gabrielle Fonrouge, CNBC, 14 Nov. 2025

Some superstar parents have opted to keep their kids away from the Hollywood cameras altogether but will show fans small glimpses on social media instead. —Stephanie Sengwe, PEOPLE, 14 Nov. 2025

Aziz Ansari, 97 minutes There’s increasing proof that people just don’t see comedies in theaters, choosing to watch them at home instead. —Brian Tallerico, Vulture, 14 Nov. 2025

Word History

First Known Use

1667, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Phrases Containing instead

• instead of

Rhymes for instead

• abed
• ahead
• beachhead
• bedspread
• bedstead
• behead
• blackhead
• blockhead
• bloodshed
• bowhead
• breastfed
• bridgehead

Kids Definition

instead

adverb

in·​stead in-ˈsted 

: as a substitute

was going to write but called instead